The 8 Best Dog Harnesses For Walking In 2024
- May 27, 2023
- By Dr. Barry Buttler
When it comes to walking dogs, harnesses have become a popular choice among many pet owners. While some dogs may experience discomfort or choking with collars, using dog harnesses for walking provides a greater sense of security and comfort for them.
It is critical to select the proper harness for your dog. Some dogs may need a harness with built-in safety features to keep them from pulling or trying to escape like Harry Houdini.
BestForPets (bestforpets.org) provides information on best dog harnesses for walking. These are some of the greatest harnesses on the market, compiled into a single list to make your life simpler. The less time you spend choosing the correct harness, the more time you have for walks!
Vet Approved
Reviewed & Fact - Checked by
Deborah R. Fletcher (DVM)
VeterinarianThe information provided is current and up-to-date, in line with the latest research conducted in the field of veterinary medicine.
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Compare Table
| Image | Product | View on Amazon |
|---|---|---|
1
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Easy Walk Dog Harness by PetSafe | View on Amazon |
2
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IDC Powerharness Nylon Reflective No Pull Harness Julius-K9 | View on Amazon |
3
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Polyester Puppia Vest Step In Harness | View on Amazon |
4
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Premium Outdoor Adventure Reflective Harness by Chai’s Choice | View on Amazon |
5
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Pawtitas Reflective Nylon Back Clip Harness | View on Amazon |
6
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Harness Kurgo Stash n’ Dash | View on Amazon |
7
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HDP Big Dog Harness with No Pull | View on Amazon |
8
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American River Ombre Nylon Reflective Harness by Doggie Design | View on Amazon |
Reviews
Best Overall: Easy Walk Dog Harness by PetSafe
The PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness is an essential tool for pet owners who want to take their beloved companions for a walk with comfort and safety.
This harness comes in eight sizes and seven color combinations, making it a versatile option for canines of all breeds and sizes.
The harness’s patented Martingale loop design applies gentle pressure to the dog’s shoulders, preventing them from pulling during walks, making it a great no-pull harness recommended by veterinarians and dog trainers worldwide.
The harness is designed with your dog’s comfort in mind, being lightweight and breathable. Unlike other harnesses, it rests on your dog’s torso, preventing choking or gagging if they tug during walks.
The harness’s quick-release shoulder straps and color-contrasting waist strap make it easy to put on and take off, and it’s adjustable along all three strap sets, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for your furry friend.
PetSafe has been a trusted global leader in pet behavior, containment, and lifestyle innovations since 1998, providing quality products for your pet’s health, safety, and happiness. Their U.S.-based customer service team is also available to answer any product-related questions or concerns.
Overall, the PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness is a must-have for pet owners who want to take their dogs on safe and enjoyable walks. It’s a high-quality, reliable harness that has been proven to prevent pulling, making it an indispensable tool for any pet owner.
There are eight sizes and seven color combinations.
Front loop with no-pull patented
No-pull harnesses that are highly recommended
Breathable, with less material than conventional harnesses.
Simple to put on and take off
Adjustable along all straps
The size of the straps varies greatly across sizes.
Premium Choice: IDC Powerharness Nylon Reflective No Pull Harness Julius-K9
The Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness Nylon Reflective No Pull Harness is a top-quality dog walking harness that comes in eight sizes and seven colors, including an American flag pattern.
The Eco-Tex interior lining is breathable and gentle against your dog’s skin, ensuring maximum comfort.
The fittings are break- and frost-resistant, and the harness itself is water-resistant, making it suitable for all weather conditions. The pectoral harness is highly reflective, enhancing visibility in low-light situations.
The harness’s design allows your dog to move freely without slipping out of the harness when properly adjusted. While the Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness Nylon Reflective No Pull Harness is an excellent choice for most dogs, some customers have reported that it may not be suitable for powerful pullers.
When you purchase the Julius-K9 harness, you will receive two free customizable patches. The package also includes a card with a QR code that leads to a website where you can obtain custom patches. If you have any issues, you can contact Las Vegas K9 Inc. by email.
To ensure that you order the correct size, measure your dog’s chest circumference two fingers behind their front limb before placing your order. Size 2 is recommended for dogs with a chest circumference between 28 and 37.5 inches and a weight between 61.5 and 88 pounds, such as Labrador Retrievers, Boxers, Collies, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, Greyhounds, Weimaraners, American Staffordshire Terriers, Irish Setters, Borzois, and Beaucerons.
The harness comes with two original, customizable patches as a bonus. You can enter up to 20 characters for your pet’s name, phone number, or any other information. You can customize the left and right portions of the patches differently or similarly.
The Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness Nylon Reflective No Pull Harness is an excellent choice for dog owners who want a high-quality, customizable harness that is durable, comfortable, and provides exceptional visibility in low-light conditions.
It’s a must-have for dog owners who enjoy evening and early morning walks with their furry companions.
There are eight sizes and seven colors available.
The inside lining is both breathable and soft.
Buckles that are break-resistant and freeze-proof
Water repellant finish
Chest strap that is very reflective
High mobility without compromising a secure fit
Some dogs may not benefit from a reduction in tugging.
Best for Puppies: Polyester Puppia Vest Step In Harness
The Puppia Vest Polyester Step In Harness is an excellent option for pet owners seeking a secure and comfortable harness for puppies or dogs learning to walk. This harness is available in six sizes and fifteen colors, including a fashionable camo pattern.
The harness is easy to put on and take off and has a vest-style padding that ensures your pet’s maximum comfort. It is breathable and has a snug fit that prevents your dog from escaping. The rear of the harness incorporates two D-rings for added security.
Many consumers have reported that the Puppia Vest Polyester Step In Harness runs small. Therefore, it may be necessary to purchase multiple sizes for a growing dog to ensure a proper fit.
This harness is made of high-quality, durable, and easy-to-clean polyester material. The air-mesh design provides superior comfort for your dog, and the inner filler provides additional padding for maximum comfort during outings.
To ensure that you order the correct size, refer to the measurements chart, and measure your dog’s neck girth and chest girth. Make sure that all measurements fit within the harness’s dimensions, leaving extra space in the torso and neck.
Overall, the Puppia Vest Polyester Step In Harness is an excellent choice for pet owners who want a secure and comfortable harness for their dogs. It’s available in various colors and sizes, making it versatile and suitable for all dog breeds and sizes.
The harness’s durable and easy-to-clean polyester material, combined with its air-mesh design, ensures superior comfort for your dog during walks.
Ideal for puppies
There are six sizes and 15 colors available.
For comfort, it is padded and breathable.
Ensure a secure vest-style fit
Double d-rings increase security.
Small sizes are possible.
Premium Outdoor Adventure Reflective Harness by Chai’s Choice
The Chai's Choice Premium Outdoor Adventure Reflective Harness is an excellent option for dog owners seeking a durable and fashionable harness.
This harness comes in five sizes and nine colors, making it adaptable for canines of all sizes and breeds.
The harness is padded throughout, distributing weight and preventing neck and trachea pressure on your dog. Reflective piping is also incorporated into the fabric, enhancing visibility during low-light treks.
The adjustability of the Chai’s Choice Premium Outdoor Adventure Reflective Harness allows you to customize the fit for your furry companion. It has both front and rear clip tether attachments, providing flexibility in how the leash is attached.
This harness is constructed from scratch-resistant and long-lasting oxford material. The lightweight duraflex buckle has a large load capacity, significantly enhancing the buckle’s strength and dispersion.
The harness has a lightweight mesh interior and plush sponge padding, providing your companion dog or service dog with maximum comfort. Additionally, it has a robust handle for easy access and control.
Chai’s Choice, the manufacturer of this harness, is owned and operated in Sarasota, Florida by a retired US Navy veteran. Since 2014, Chai’s Choice has had a solid reputation for providing high-quality pet products.
While some reviews have noted that the straps may be difficult to modify, making this a poor choice for those with arthritis or other hand problems, this harness is an excellent option for pet owners seeking a durable, fashionable, and comfortable harness for their animal companions.
The reflective material increases visibility in low-light conditions, and the adjustable straps enable a customized fit. The harness has both front and rear clip leash attachments, a lightweight mesh lining, and plush sponge cushioning, providing maximum comfort for your companion.
It is made of scratch-resistant and long-lasting oxford material and has a lightweight duraflex fastener with a large load capacity, enhancing strength and dispersion.
There are five sizes and nine colors available.
Clips on the front and back
Padded for comfort and even distribution of weight
Fabric with reflective piping
Control and accessibility are provided via a handle.
Fitting may be tough to achieve.
Pawtitas Reflective Nylon Back Clip Harness
The Pawtitas Nylon Reflective Back Clip Harness is a great option for pet owners seeking a durable and comfortable harness for their beloved companions. This harness comes in five sizes and nine colors, making it adaptable for canines of all sizes and breeds.
The rear clip and two closures with adjustable straps make it easy to put on and remove the item. The harness has neoprene cushioning for comfort and a proper fit, and the fluorescent strip is beneficial in low-light situations. It is highly durable and constructed to last, making it a worthwhile purchase for companion owners.
When purchasing this harness, it is essential to take accurate measurements of your dog, as the section that drapes over the dog’s head cannot be adjusted. The Pawtitas Nylon Reflective Back Clip Harness runs slightly smaller than indicated on the measurement chart; therefore, pet owners may need to size up.
The French Bulldog, Beagle, Boston Terrier, and Cocker Spaniel are excellent candidates for this harness. The M Dog Harness has padded dog harness dimensions of 19″ Neck and 22 to 28″ Chest with a girth of 3/4″.
The Pawtitas Nylon Reflective Back Clip Harness is a no-pull dog harness that reduces your dog’s ability to excessively pull on the leash while walking. The pet harness prioritizes safety and convenience.
This easy-to-use step-in dog harness is ideal for puppies and large canines. This harness is perfect for park strolls, hiking, and educating your companion. The reflective design is intended to reflect ambient light in extreme low-light conditions, maximizing your dog’s visibility when it is most important.
We recommend measuring your companion before purchasing the Pawtitas Nylon Reflective Back Clip Harness for their safety and comfort. This harness is not chew-resistant, and pet owners should not leave their furry companion unattended while wearing it.
Overall, the Pawtitas Nylon Reflective Back Clip Harness is an outstanding option for pet owners seeking a durable, comfortable, and reflective harness for their beloved companions. It is easy to put on and take off, and the neoprene padding provides additional comfort.
Prioritizing their safety and comfort, the harness is designed to reduce your dog’s ability to excessively pull on the leash while walking. It comes in a variety of sizes and colors, making it a versatile option for canines of all sizes and breeds.
There are five sizes and nine colors available.
There are two buckles and two adjustable belly straps.
Reflective strip for low-light conditions
Padding made of neoprene for comfort and fit
Design that is strong
The loop over the head is not adjustable.
Small sizes are possible.
Harness Kurgo Stash n’ Dash
The Kurgo Stash n' Dash Harness is an excellent option for pet owners seeking a lightweight and comfortable harness for hiking and running with their beloved companions. This harness is available in five different sizes and one solid color, providing pet owners with limited selection.
The Kurgo Stash n’ Dash Harness is equipped with both front and rear rings, allowing pet owners to attach the leash to either one. The padded straps and adjustable belts provide the highest level of comfort. In addition, it has a rear storage compartment for transporting trail essentials such as poop bags, snacks, food, and other small items.
This harness is designed for hiking and running, with a V-shaped neck that allows canines to move freely. It is constructed with a ripstop exterior and a nylon interior for comfort.
All-aluminum hardware ensures that the harness will not weigh down your furry companion. Additionally, the reflective trim enhances nocturnal visibility, ensuring that your pet is visible in low-light conditions.
The Kurgo Stash n’ Dash Harness includes a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects and normal wear and tear, providing pet owners with peace of mind.
It is essential to note that this harness is slightly oversized, making it prone to sliding when using the front clasp. Consequently, it may not be the safest choice for escape artists.
The Kurgo Stash n’ Dash Harness is an excellent option for pet owners seeking a lightweight and comfortable harness for hiking and running with their beloved companions. The harness has adjustable straps and breathable mesh padding to ensure maximum comfort for your pet.
Additionally, it has a rear stash compartment for transporting small essentials, making it a versatile option for outdoor activities.
There are five sizes.
Clips on the front and back
Mesh cushioning that breathes for comfort
Keep snacks and other items in the pocket.
Warranty for life
A single color
Fitting may be a little loose.
Not suitable for escape artists.
HDP Big Dog Harness with No Pull
The HDP Big Dog No Pull Harness is an excellent option for pet owners with large and strong-pulling canines. This harness is available in four sizes and six colors, providing pet owners with a variety of options to choose from.
The HDP Big Dog No Pull Harness is specifically designed for large canines and helps reduce or eliminate pulling. It has a padded design for comfort and a built-in handle for added control when necessary. This feature is especially useful for pet owners who need to exert quick control over their canines during walks and training sessions.
The harness’s easy-click fasteners make it effortless to put on and remove. It also comes with additional cushioning to ensure maximum comfort for your pet. The D-Ring is a practical addition to the harness that makes attaching a leash simple.
However, some users have reported that the adjustment adjusters are loose enough to detach during use. Pet owners should keep this in mind when deciding on a harness for their dog.
In addition, since the harness is designed for large canines with broad bodies, it may not be suitable for large, slender breeds such as Irish Wolfhounds and Greyhounds.
Overall, the HDP Big Dog No Pull Harness is an excellent option for owners of large canines that tend to pull aggressively.
The padding and integrated handle provide additional comfort and control, making walks and workouts more manageable. The quick-release fasteners and D-ring make putting on and removing the harness and attaching a leash effortless.
The HDP Big Dog No Pull Harness is constructed from polyester to ensure that it can withstand normal wear and tear. It is suitable for hard-pulling or senior canines, as it will not suffocate hard-pulling dogs.
There are four sizes and six colors available.
Designed particularly for huge and wide dogs.
Padding for added comfort
Extra control is provided via the built-in handle.
Straps that adjust and a buckle closing
While in use, slides may become loose.
Not suitable for escape artists.
It is ineffective for big, thin breeds.
American River Ombre Nylon Reflective Harness by Doggie Design
For pet owners who prioritize their dog’s safety and comfort, the Doggie Design American River Ombre Nylon Reflective Harness is an excellent option. This harness is available in nine sizes and nine ombre color combinations, giving pet owners numerous options to choose from.
The revolutionary, choke-free design of the Doggie Design American River Ombre Nylon Reflective Harness protects your dog’s larynx and neck. It features a durable buckle and two D-rings for added security, ensuring that your canine companion is safe and secure during walks and other activities.
The harness is made of breathable mesh, ensuring your pet’s maximum comfort. It also features luminous stripes on the chest for low-light treks, enhancing nocturnal visibility and safety.
Sizes X-large and larger are reinforced with nylon webbing, giving them a maximum breaking strength of 386 pounds. This characteristic assures pet owners that the harness is durable and well-constructed, making it a worthwhile investment for their beloved companions.
However, it is essential to note that this harness runs small, so dog owners should select a size larger when purchasing a harness. In addition, it may run large in the neck and upper chest, so it’s likely that it will gape in these areas but fit in the torso. Additionally, pet caretakers should be aware that canines with shorter jaws may become entangled in the fabric.
The Doggie Design American River Ombre Nylon Reflective Harness is an excellent option for pet owners who place a premium on their dog’s safety and comfort.
The harness’ choke-free design, heavy-duty buckle, and dual D-rings ensure the safety and security of your furry companion during walks and other activities. The mesh construction and reflective patches on the torso increase your pet’s comfort and visibility during evening excursions.
There are nine sizes and nine ombre hues available.
Patented choke-free design
For security, a buckle and twin D-rings are used.
Breathable mesh that is reinforced in sizes x-large and up.
Reflective chest strip
Small sizes may be available.
There may be a gap in the throat/upper chest region.
Some dogs’ jaws may become caught in the cloth.
Buyer's Guide
Harness Types
The essential harness varieties are:
The most common form of harness on the market, the back clip harness is designed for dogs with fundamental requirements who can walk or jog without pulling. The harness features a metal D-ring affixed to the back for leash attachment.
When using a front clip harness, also called a “no-pull” harness, pet owners can train their dogs to walk without pulling on the leash. In this instance, the D-ring is located across the dog’s torso, affixed to the front of the harness.
These versatile harnesses feature both front and rear attachment options. Several of our preferred product options, including our best choices, feature dual-clip designs.
Step-in harness: If your dogs are picky about wearing a traditional over-the-head harness, they may favor a step-in design. The dog steps into two large loops to form the harness, which is then drawn up and fastened behind them.
Safety harnesses are commonly used in vehicles to keep canines safe and secure by adhering to the seatbelt.
If your dog needs to transport supplies or accoutrements, a daypack harness will enable them to carry everything on their back.
Dog Harness Vs Dog Collar
The majority of canines should wear a collar for identification, but you should consider your dog’s size and temperament when deciding between a harness and a collar for walking and training. Due to the risk of their trachea collapsing, many small canines cannot be walked while wearing a collar.
Many very large canines will also benefit from the control a harness provides to the person holding the leash, such as our top choice for Big canines, the 2 Hounds Design Freedom No Pull Dog Harness, which has a leash attachment at the torso and back.
Discover the top 9 best reflective dog collars for enhanced visibility and safety during walks. Read more at BestForPets.org!
Sizing and Fit
Choosing the proper harness for your dog is frequently a matter of trial and error. Before selecting the size of the harness, it is essential to give close attention to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
The most significant indicator will be the dog’s girth, so you will need to measure the torso diameter of your dog. Typically, weight is also a factor in measurements, so it is essential to obtain an accurate weight measurement.
The majority of harnesses are easily adjustable, allowing a dog to develop into them. To determine if the harness fits properly, the best diagnostic test is to insert two fingertips between the dog and the harness. Harnesses that are too restrictive can cause discomfort and irritation.
Materials
Since the purpose of harnesses is typically to keep canines safe, secure, and under control, high-quality dog harnesses are typically made of rip-resistant nylon and polyester. In addition to enhancing the comfort of the harness, additional cushioning can provide protection against fracturing and other damage.
To ensure that the weight of your dog does not draw the harness and tether apart, the D-rings should be made of stainless steel or another metal that cannot fail.
Instruction in Walking On A Harness
If you have a rambunctious dog that requires corralling, you should begin with a no-pull harness, which are also known as training harnesses. The front-clip design is intended to teach your dog over time not to drag or attempt to escape during walks or jogs.
FAQs
1. Is a harness superior to a collar?
In general, harnesses are preferable to collars for canines. Because they go around the dog’s torso and behind their front legs, they will not suffocate or strain the dog’s neck like a collar would. Additionally, harnesses give you more leverage to control a large dog or a dog that likes to drag.
2. How is a dog’s size determined for a harness?
The most significant measurement is the chest, or the widest portion of your dog’s torso. Additionally, you will need to measure their neck circumference and cross-reference these measurements with their weight to determine the exact size.
3. How can dragging be prevented with a harness?
If you’re looking to prevent your dog from dragging on walks, you should choose a harness with a torso loop attachment for the leash. The location aids in gently correcting your dog by drawing them to the side if they get too far ahead of you.
4. What is the distinction between a front clip and a rear clip harness?
A front clip harness features a D-ring on the front, while a rear clip harness features a D-ring on the back. A front-clip harness is ideal for dogs that pull, while a back-clip harness is appropriate for dogs that walk patiently on a leash.
5. What type of dog harness is best?
Choose nylon or leather dog harnesses. Nylon is lightweight, breathable, and easy to clean. Leather is durable and easy to maintain. A front clip, a rear clip, or a harness with two separate leash pulls are additional important features to consider.
6. How do I select the most suitable harness for my dog?
Consider your dog’s size, walking style, and comfort when selecting the most appropriate harness. Consider purchasing a harness that is adjustable, secure, and offers excellent control. Consult reviews, your veterinarian, or a pet expert for recommendations.
7. What color harness is best for dogs?
If your dog has a “warm” color, such as light brown, tan, honey, or apricot, a collar and leash in silver, lime, or cobalt will stand out. In contrast, grey, black, and dark brown fur contrast best with warm colors, such as red, orange, and purple.
Conclusion
Following the article on BestForPets (bestforpets.org), you can find the best dog leash for walking that is right for your dog. The PetSafe Easy Walk is the best overall seat belt for walking dogs and is recommended by veterinarians and trainers.
Due to its wide range of sizes and secure fit, the Puppia Vest Polyester Step-In Harness is the best choice for a puppy harness. If you have a larger budget, choose the Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness Non-Pull Reflective Nylon Zipper, which comes in a variety of sizes and colors and is built to last.
Veterinarian (DVM)
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